Windy Canyon Winery 2014 Poirier Red Wine, Walla Walla Valley $40

Walla Walla Valley vintner Charles Weaver earned a gold medal at the 2016 Cascadia International for his 2014 Syrah from Les Collines Vineyards. This blend built upon Cabernet Sauvignon from Golden Ridge Vineyard is rounded out by 45% of that luscious Syrah from Les Collines, so it’s no surprise that his 2014 Poirier achieved a double gold at the Cascadia a year later. Aromas of boysenberry enrobed in dark chocolate and maple syrup lead to round flavors of dark cherry and plum. A sense of earthiness and baking spices add to the finish. It’s drinking superbly.